A library in Colorado recently received an unexpected return of a book that was due back in 1919. The copy of “Ivanhoe: A Romance” by Sir Walter Scott was originally due back at the Fort Collins Public Library and Free Reading Room on February 13, 1919. The book was returned anonymously in February of this year after being discovered by the person’s brother in their mother’s belongings. Despite the warning sticker inside the book that outlined potential fees for late returns, the library has waived any charges, as they stopped charging fines in 2020.
The late fee for the overdue book in 1919 dollars would have amounted to around $14,000 today when adjusted for inflation. However, the person responsible for the late return will not be required to pay anything. A representative from the Poudre Libraries noted that it is important for people to return any library book they find, regardless of how overdue it may be. The library is happy to have the book back and is understanding of the circumstances that may have led to the long delay in its return.
The Poudre Libraries system consists of three library locations in Fort Collins, Colorado. While the original library where the book was checked out has been renamed several times and the location where the book was checked out is now a community center, the library system continues to serve the community in various ways. The library has expressed joy and humor in seeing older books that have been well-loved for many decades making their way back into the system. Although this particular copy of “Ivanhoe: A Romance” will not be put back into circulation, the library does have newer copies of the book available for borrowing.
The library representative emphasized that every public library is willing to work with customers to help them out, and there is no need to be afraid of returning overdue books. Readers are encouraged to bring back any library materials they may come across, regardless of how much time has passed since they were due. The library sees the return of long-overdue books as a source of joy and humor, as it symbolizes the love and care that readers have for their books over the years. The Poudre Libraries system has a website where readers can find more information about library resources and services.
In a similar instance of an overdue book being returned, a popular children’s book was brought back to a library in Missouri after 30 years. The library system welcomed the return of the book and emphasized that it is never too late to return borrowed materials. This story, along with the return of the century-overdue copy of “Ivanhoe: A Romance,” serves as a reminder of the enduring impact that books can have on people’s lives. The library encourages patrons to enjoy and care for their borrowed books, while also being mindful of returning them in a timely manner for others to enjoy.
